Alerts

Warning: WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Thomas Schulz

2 September 2024

WhatsApp messages have been sent misusing the name of Thomas Schulz in relation to recovery of funds from cryptocurrency.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that a member of the public has received WhatsApp messages from an individual going by the name of 'Thomas Schulz' claiming to be a 'Certified Cryptocurrency Forensic Investigator' in relation to recovery of funds from cryptocurrency. The recipient was asked to pay up front fees into a bank account belonging to a 'Neil Robbins'.

The recipient was provided with a passport identity document which is not believed to be legitimate.

The WhatsApp messages were sent using a telephone number of '+44 7311 970512' and an email address of 'recoveryrepublic@proton.me' was provided.

The WhatsApp messages misused the name of a genuine registered foreign lawyer (see below).

Any business or transaction through the number '+44 7311 970512' and an email address 'recoveryrepublic@proton.me' are not undertaken by a firm or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a registered foreign lawyer called Thomas Schulz, SRA ID 557755.

Thomas Schulz has confirmed that he does not have any connection to the WhatsApp messages referred to in the above alert.

What should I do?

When a firm's or individual's identity has been copied exactly (or cloned), due diligence is necessary. If you receive correspondence claiming to be from the above firm(s) or individual(s), or information of a similar nature to that described, you should conduct your own due diligence by checking the authenticity of the correspondence by contacting the law firm directly by reliable and established means. You can contact the SRA to find out if individuals or firms are regulated and authorised by the SRA and verify an individual's or firm's practising details. Other verification methods, such as checking public records (e.g. telephone directories and company records) may be required in other circumstances.